university of west florida of west florida ... substitution for graduation requirements for students...

UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA

DEPARTMENT OF NURSING

Master of Science in Nursing

Specialty Tracks:

Nursing Leadership & Management

Nursing Education

STUDENT HANDBOOK

University of West Florida

Department of Nursing

11000 University Parkway

Pensacola, FL 32514

850.473.7756 Phone

850.473.7769Fax

[email protected]

The Initial accreditation visit for the Master of Science in Nursing programs

will occur in fall 2013

mailto:[email protected]


MSN Online Nursing Program Student Handbook

Created Fall 2013

Welcome Students!

Congratulations on your decision and dedication to furthering your academic career at The

University of West Florida! The nursing faculty, staff, and administration are committed to your

successful transition as an active professional within your community.

In order to assist your adjustment as an MSN online nursing student we have prepared this

Nursing Student Handbook to use as a reference throughout the program. This Handbook is a

supplement specific to the Nursing Department policies and procedures and all students should

also bookmark the URL of the current University of West Florida Graduate Catalog

http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/ and University of West Florida Student Handbook and Planner:

http://uwf.edu/govt/pdf/studentresources/Student%20Planner%20and%20Handbook-2012-

13.pdf for general information and policies related to the Student Code of Conduct and

violations thereof, and Student rights and responsibilities. Content in any of the official

University handbooks is subject to change at any time without prior notice.

The Department of Nursing also reserves the right to change, without notice, any statement in

this MSN handbook concerning, but not limited to, rules, policies, fees, curricula, and courses.

Such changes shall be effective whenever determined by the appropriate faculty and

administrative bodies; they may govern both old and new students. In addition, nothing in this

handbook constitutes, is intended to constitute, or should be construed as creating a contract

between a student and the Department of Nursing or The University of West Florida.

The Online Campus http://onlinecampus.uwf.edu/ offers support for the distance learner. Here

you will find information on out-of-state tuition waivers, distant access to the library, and

technical support.

It is our hope that the information through the University and this handbook will enable you to

successfully navigate the distance learning experience.

The University of West Florida does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age, national

origin, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or veteran status. The University subscribes fully

to all federal and state legislation and regulations regarding discrimination.

Revised 6/2013

Dr. Angela Blackburn

MSN Program Coordinator

Dr. Ermalynn Kiehl

Department of Nursing, Chair

http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/

http://uwf.edu/govt/pdf/studentresources/Student%20Planner%20and%20Handbook-2012-13.pdf


http://onlinecampus.uwf.edu/



Created Fall 2013

WELCOME 2 Table of Contents 3 Academic Calendar 5 STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE The University of West Florida Mission Statement 5

The University of West Florida Vision Statement 5 The Department of Nursing Philosophy, Mission, Academic Learning Compacts Mission 5 Vision 6 Academic Learning Plan 6

CURRICULUM

Online MSN degree plans 9 Nursing Leadership & Management 9 Nursing Education 9

Graduate Curriculum Tracks 10 Nursing Course Descriptions 11

Admission & Progression

Graduate Admissions Requirements 12 Provisional Admission 15 Conditional Admission 16 Graduation Requirements 16 Application for Graduation 17

Commencement 17 Advisement- SASS Degree Audit

Substitution for graduation requirements for students with disabilities 18 Progression in the MSN Program 18 Orientation 19 Academic Advising 19 Online Campus 19

Online Campus Programs 20 State Employee Tuition Fee Waivers 20 Out-of-State Waivers 21 Online campus fee 21 Online Campus Student Support 22 Military Education Advising 22

Frequently Used Services 22 HELP Desk 22 UWF Library 22 Student Responsibility 22

SCHOLASTIC STANDARDS Scholastic Standards for Nursing Program Students 23

Grading Practices 23 Policy Regarding Incompletes 23 Policies Regarding Withdrawals 24 Reinstatement for Canceled Registration 27 Final Examinations 28 Plagiarism Policy 28 Policies Regarding Dismissal 28

TABLE OF CONTENTS



Created Fall 2013

Faculty/Student Communication 29

STUDENT POLICIES Student Records 29

Name/Address Change 29 Electronic Records 29 Professional Liability Insurance 30 TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENT Technology Requirements 30 E-Mail 30

APA WRITING STYLE AND TURNITIN 31 APA 31 Due Dates 31 Format 32 Grading Requests 32

Writing Assistance 32 Turnitin 32 HEALTH AND SAFETY Immunization Requirements 33 DRUG SCREEN POLICY AND PROCEDURE and BACKGROUND CHECK

Drug Screen Policy and Procedure 33 Positive Results 35 Second Test-Negative Results 36 Security of Results 36

General Requirements and Procedures 36 Background Check 37 Fingerprinting 37

STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT AND PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR

Confidentiality 38 Student Rights and Responsibilities 38 UWF Department of Nursing Grievance Procedure 38 UWF Department Procedure for Filing a Formal Complaint Form 40

HIPAA 41 DEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEES AND ACTIVITIES Departmental Committees 42 Student Organizations 42 Financial Aid 43 Support Services – Students with Special Needs 43

ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE PAGE 44 APA Guidelines 45



Created Fall 2013

The Academic Calendar for 2013-2014 academic year can be found at

http://uwf.edu/registrar/Academic%20Calendars%20for%202013-2014.pdf

The Academic Calendar for 2014-2015 academic year can be found at

http://uwf.edu/registrar/Academic%20Calendars%20for%20Web%20for%202014-2015.pdf

The University of West Florida Mission

The University Of West Florida (UWF) is a public university based in Northwest Florida with

multiple instructional sites and a strong virtual presence. UWF's mission is to provide

students with access to high-quality, relevant, and affordable undergraduate and graduate

learning experiences; to transmit, apply, and discover knowledge through teaching,

scholarship, research, and public service; and to engage in community partnerships that

respond to mutual concerns and opportunities and that advance the economy and quality

of life in the region.

UWF is committed to planning and investing strategically to enhance student access and

educational attainment; to build on existing strengths and develop distinctive academic

and research programs and services that respond to identified regional and state needs;

and to support highly qualified faculty and staff who engage students in rigorous, high-

impact, student-oriented learning experiences that enhance personal and professional

development and empower alumni to contribute responsibly and creatively to a complex

21st Century global society.

The University of West Florida Vision

The University of West Florida aspires to be widely recognized as a model of excellence

and relevance, sought out as a distinctive intellectual and cultural center, valued as an

engaged partner, and acclaimed for being "different by design."

The Department of Nursing, Mission, Vision and Academic Learning Plan

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the University of West Florida Graduate Nursing Program is to educate the

student to make contributions as an advanced practice nurse in roles including leader,

administrator, educator, researcher, scholar, and a life-long learner. The nursing graduate

of the UWF Graduate Nursing Program will critically and accurately use the nursing process

with diverse clients while remaining sensitive to a variety of subcultural influences,

healthcare delivery systems, and global environment. Based on progression from the

baccalaureate nursing program, the graduate nursing program refines clinical skills and

STRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE

ACADEMIC CALENDAR 2013-2014

http://uwf.edu/registrar/Academic%20Calendars%20for%202013-2014.pdf

http://uwf.edu/registrar/Academic%20Calendars%20for%20Web%20for%202014-2015.pdf



Created Fall 2013

stimulates the use of research, analysis, synthesis, and active inquiry. The student will use

knowledge to respond critically and make appropriate decisions. This graduate nursing

program provides a service to the healthcare community by increasing the number of

nurses who practice professional nursing at an advanced level in nursing leadership and

management and nursing education. The program also serves the populations’ health needs

by providing quality nursing care.

VISION STATEMENT

It is the vision of the Department of Nursing to be widely recognized as a model of

excellence and relevance, and to be sought out as a leading master’s nursing school in

evidence-based nursing education.

ACADEMIC LEARNING PLAN (ALP) Department of Nursing Mission Statement

The mission of the University of West Florida Graduate Nursing Program is to educate the

student to make contributions as an advanced practice nurse in roles including leader,

administrator, educator, researcher, scholar, and a life-long learner. The nursing graduate

of the UWF Graduate Nursing Program will critically and accurately use the nursing process

with diverse clients while remaining sensitive to a variety of subcultural influences,

healthcare delivery systems, and global environment. Based on progression from the

baccalaureate nursing program, the graduate nursing program refines clinical skills and

stimulates the use of research, analysis, synthesis, and active inquiry.

The student will use knowledge to respond critically and make appropriate decisions.

This graduate nursing program provides a service to the healthcare community by

increasing the number of nurses who practice professional nursing at an advanced level in

nursing leadership and management and nursing education. The program also serves the

populations’ health needs by providing quality nursing care

Department of Nursing Vision Statement

It is the vision of the Department of Nursing is to be widely recognized as a model of

excellence and relevance, and to be sought out as a leading master’s nursing school in

evidence-based nursing education.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the UWF Master of Science in Nursing program should be able to do the

following:

Content

• Implement theoretical concepts of nursing and related disciplines to provide holistic,

quality care to clients across the lifespan from diverse societal subgroups. (GPO 1*)

• Analyze the health care delivery system in relation to diversity and global

perspectives, at an appropriate level of complexity. (GPO 9)

• Examine strategies that promote organizational effectiveness, fiscal responsibility,

and safe nursing practice through quality measures grounded in evidence based

practice. (GPO 6)

• Evaluate the impact of legal and regulatory processes, reporting of errors, and health

care policy on health care delivery, nursing practice, and health outcomes. (GPO 7,

3)

Critical Thinking



Created Fall 2013

Apply, and analyze new research/evidence based practice by utilizing the essential

core competencies of critical thinking and clinical reasoning to ensure best nursing

practice. (GPO 2)

Use computer hardware and software to select and interpret statistical analyses, and

perform search quests for scholarly assignments. (GPO 2)

Differentiate between current and emerging comprehensive databases and

information technologies that drive safe practice and promote positive health

outcomes. (GPO 8)

Communication

• Utilize professional, effective written, electronic and oral communication to develop,

participate in and lead inter-professional teams. (GPO 4)

• Assume educational and leadership roles to communicate the need for wellness

teaching strategies to promote health and prevent disease in diverse populations.

(GPO 9)

• Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in professional writings. (GPO 3)

Integrity/Values

Recognize, analyze, and evaluate ethical dilemmas and the ways in which these

challenges impact diverse client populations and global healthcare. (GPO 5, 9)

Engage in lifelong learning and describe a short and long term plan for ongoing

professional development that includes a mentoring/coaching component. (GPO 10)

Integrate the advanced practice nursing ethical role into professional healthcare

environments through participation in professional organizations, scholarship,

education, and service. (GPO 5)

Project Management

Definition: The Project Management learning domain in nursing is organized into four

categories with related student learning outcomes. Within each of the following categories,

graduates should be able to do the following:

Project Conceptualization

• Design and execute an Evidenced Based Project to address a nursing problem related

to clinical practice, and/or specialty track. (GPO 2)

• Implement multidisciplinary concepts, resources, and research appropriately. (GPO

4)

• Translate knowledge to improve health care outcomes across diverse settings. (GPO

1)

Self-Regulation

• Set appropriate goals and time-line for project completion. (GPO 3)

• Remain accountable for one’s own actions. (GPO 3)

• Serve as an advocate in one’s professional role. (GPO 3)

Team-Work Skills

• Communicate effectively to facilitate team development and participation. (GPO 4)

• Work effectively with others as a team member in a professional environment. (GPO

4)

• Assess quality of contributions of each team members (peer review). (GPO 3)



Created Fall 2013

• Serve as an inter-professional team leader if deemed necessary. (GPO 4)

Project Delivery

• Produce, implement, and disseminate a quality Evidence-Based Project. (GPO 2)

• Effectively present results using oral, electronic written, and/or visual means. (GPO

3)

*GPO – Graduate Program Outcome

Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes

Nursing graduate students will acquire advanced skills and knowledge that enable them to

practice advanced professional nursing or pursue doctoral level study. Direct measures of

the student learning outcomes are conducted using examinations, essays, papers, group

work, online presentations, and problem solving activities. The capstone experience is a

required role practicum under the direction of a preceptor. Finally, the graduating student

will participate in an End-of-Program Survey upon completion of degree requirements.

Revised 8/13



Created Fall 2013

Degree Requirements – Leadership & Management Specialization

Students must complete both the core courses and the specialty courses.

Curriculum

Direct Care Core Courses (9cr.) Credits

NGR 6002 Advanced Health Assessment 3

NGR 6140 Advanced Pathophysiology 3

NGR 6172 Advanced Pharmacology 3

Graduate Nursing Core Courses (12cr.)

NGR 6700 Healthcare Theories, Trends and Issues in Nursing and Society 3

NGR 6740 Contemporary Issues in the Role of Advanced Nursing Practice 3

NGR 6800 Nursing Research, Statistics, & Evidence-Based Practice 3

NGR 6880 Ethical Issues in Advanced Practice Nursing 3

Functional Area Content: Nursing Leadership & Management (18cr.)

NGR 6728 Nursing Leadership & Management Seminar I (3 cr. didactic & 3 cr. role practicum) 6

NGR 6729 Nursing Leadership & Management Seminar II (3 cr. didactic & 3 cr. role practicum)

6

NGR 6833 Nursing Leadership & Management EBP Project I [Project Development] 3

NGR 6833L Nursing Leadership & Management Project II [Project Implementation] 3

Total Credits 39

Degree Requirements - Education Specialization

Students must complete both the core courses and the specialty courses.

Curriculum

Direct Care Core Courses (9cr.) Credits




Graduate Nursing Core Courses (12cr.)

NGR 6700 Healthcare Theories, Trends and Issues in Nursing and Society 3


NGR 6800 Nursing Research, Statistics, & Evidence-Based Practice 3

NGR 6880 Ethical Issues in Advanced Practice Nursing 3

Functional Area Content: Nursing Education Courses (18cr.)

NGR 6710 Nursing Education Seminar I (3 cr. didactic & 3 cr. role practicum) 6

NGR 6715 Nursing Education Seminar II (3 cr. didactic & 3 cr. role practicum) 6

NGR 6834 Nursing Education EBP Project I [Project Development] 3

NGR 6834L Nursing Education Project II [Project Implementation] 3

Total Credits 39

ONLINE MSN DEGREE PLANS



Created Fall 2013

Graduate Program Curriculum Tracks

Nursing Leadership & Management POS Form Nursing Education POS Form

Fall Spring Summer

NGR 6700 Nursing Theory

(3 core)

NGR 6880 Ethical Issues in

Advanced Nursing Practice

(3 core)

NGR 6710 Nursing Education

Seminar I

(6: 3 didactic/ 3 practicum)

NGR 6140 Advanced

Pathophysiology (3 core)

NGR 6002 Advanced Health

Assessment (3 core)

NGR 6728 Nursing Leadership

& Management Seminar I


NGR 6740 Contemporary

Issues in the Role of

Advanced Nursing Practice

(3 core)

NGR 6800 Nursing Research,

Statistics, & Evidence Based

Practice (EBP) (3 core)

Fall Spring Summer

NGR 6172 Advanced

Pharmacology

(3 core)

NGR 6834L Nursing Education

EBP Project I (3) [Project

Development]

* NGR 6834L Nursing

Education EBP Project II (3)

[Project Implementation]

NGR 6715 Nursing

Education Seminar II


* NGR 6834L Nursing

Education EBP Project II (3)

[Project Implementation]

*NGR 6833L Nursing

Leadership & Management

EBP Project II (3) [Project

Implementation]

NGR 6729 Nursing


Seminar II(6)


NGR 6833 Nursing Leadership

& Management EBP Project I

(3) [Project Development]

*NGR 6833L Nursing


EBP Project II (3) [Project

Implementation]

*These courses can be taken either spring or summer based on Evidence-Based

Practice (EBP) Project Proposal progress White: Required Core Courses for both tracks (21 sh.)

Blue: Required Specialty Courses for Nursing Education Track (18 sh.) Green: Required Specialty Courses for Nursing Administration Track (18 sh.)

Total semester hours required for graduation = 39 sh.

Note: Your ability to progress in the curriculum is dependent upon following this schedule. For example, some courses are only taught once each year & may have

prerequisites. You may progress at your own pace, but if you do not follow this schedule, it will prolong the time to program completion. There is a six year cap on course

requirements. Students may not be permitted to graduate if courses are more than 6 years old.

http://www.uwf.edu/nursing/graduate/curriculum/Nursing%20Leadership%20&%20Management%20POS%20012913.doc

http://www.uwf.edu/nursing/graduate/curriculum/Nursing%20Education%20POS%20012913.doc



Created Fall 2013

Degree Requirements Students wishing to earn a M.S.N. must successfully complete both the core courses and the

specialty courses.

Leadership & Management Specialization

M.S.N. Core (21 sh)




NGR 6700 Nursing Theory 3


NGR 6800 Nursing Research, Statistics, and Evidence Based Practice 3

NGR 6880 Ethical Issues in Advanced Nursing Practice 3

Total Hours 21

Leadership & Management Specialty (18sh)

NGR 6728 Nursing Leadership & Management Seminar I 6

NGR 6729 Nursing Leadership & Management Seminar II 6

NGR 6833 Nursing Leadership & Management EBP Project I 3

NGR 6833L Nursing Leadership & Management EBP Project II 3

Total Hours 18

Education Specialization

M.S.N. Core (21 sh)






NGR 6800 Nursing Research, Statistics, and Evidence Based Practice 3


Total Hours 21

Education Specialization (18 sh)

NGR 6710 Nursing Education Seminar I 6

NGR 6715 Nursing Education Seminar II 6

NGR 6834 Nursing Education Evidence Based Project I 3

NGR 6834L Nursing Education Evidence Based Practice Project II 3

Total Hours 18

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING GRADUATE PROGRAM COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/nursing/
























Created Fall 2013

Nursing

Degree: Master of Science in Nursing (M.S.N.)

Specializations: Nursing Leadership & Management

Nursing Education

Department: Department of Nursing

Building 37

(850) 473-7756

http://uwf.edu/nursing/

[email protected] at uwf.edu

College: Arts and Sciences

Semester Hours Required For Degree: 39

This innovative and flexible online program prepares the professional nurse for leadership,

advanced nursing roles, and doctoral studies (including a cooperative doctorate with the

University of Florida). The M.S.N. consists of 39 semester hours (sh) of coursework.

Students may select from the two areas of specialization. Nursing Education prepares

students for employment in an academic or community/hospital/agency setting, while

Nursing Leadership & Management prepares students for employment in an

administrative/management and leadership positions in the health care industry.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the University graduate admission requirements described in the Admissions

section of the catalog, the department bases decisions for regular admission on a holistic

review of credentials in which the following criteria are used to assess the potential success of each applicant:

An earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an NLN or CCNE accredited

nursing program with a minimum overall grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale OR

a 3.0 (GPA) on a 4.0 scale in the last 60 hours of coursework on the BSN.

Submission of one of the following graduate admission tests:

o Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores on the Verbal, Quantitative, and

Analytical Writing sections. The test must have been taken no longer than five

years prior to application.

o Miller Analogies Test (MAT) score. The test must have been taken no longer

than five years prior to application.

Completion of an undergraduate statistics course with a grade of "C" or better.

GRADUATE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

F

http://uwf.edu/nursing/


https://nextcatalog.uwf.edu/graduate/admissions/




Created Fall 2013

Submission of a statement addressing how an M.S.N. will help you attain your

professional and personal goals.

Three professional/academic recommendation letters

Students who, for academic or disciplinary reasons, are not eligible to register in the

college or university last attended will not be admitted for graduate study.

Possess a current unencumbered Registered Nurse license to practice nursing in a

state or territory of the United States.

Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume. Approval by the Nursing Department Graduate Admissions Committee.

If an applicant is unable to meet the above criteria, they may petition the Nursing Department Graduate Admissions Committee and request a special review.

Please note that upon admission the M.S.N. student will receive information concerning

current UWF Nursing Department requirements for enrollment. These include, but are not

limited to: physical examination and immunizations; Level 2 criminal background check;

drug screen; VECHS fingerprinting; AHA BCLS certification; proof of professional liability insurance; and proof of personal health insurance.

Degree Requirements

Students wishing to earn a M.S.N. must successfully complete both the core courses and the

specialty courses.

Administration Specialization

M.S.N. Core (21 sh)





NGR 6740 Contemporary Issues in the Role of Advanced Nursing

Practice

3

NGR 6800 Nursing Research, Statistics, and Evidence Based

Practice

3


Total Hours 21

Administration Specialty (18sh)

NGR 6728 Nursing Leadership & Management Seminar I 6











Created Fall 2013

NGR 6729 Nursing Leadership & Management Seminar II 6

NGR 6833 Nursing Leadership & Management EBP Project I 3

NGR 6833L Nursing Leadership & Management EBP Project II 3

Total Hours 18

Education Specialization

M.S.N. Core (21 sh)





NGR 6740 Contemporary Issues in the Role of Advanced Nursing

Practice

3

NGR 6800 Nursing Research, Statistics, and Evidence Based

Practice

3


Total Hours 21

Education Specialization (18 sh)

NGR 6710 Nursing Education Seminar I 6

NGR 6715 Nursing Education Seminar II 6

NGR 6834 Nursing Education Evidence Based Project I 3

NGR 6834L Nursing Education Evidence Based Practice Project II 3

Total Hours 18

Admission Requirements

In addition to the University graduate admission requirements described in the Admissions section of the catalog, the department bases decisions for regular


















Created Fall 2013

admission on a holistic review of credentials in which the following criteria are used to assess the potential success of each applicant:

An earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from an NLN or CCNE

accredited nursing program with a minimum overall grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale OR a 3.0 (GPA) on a 4.0 scale in the last 60 hours of

coursework on the BSN. Submission of one of the following graduate admission tests:

o Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores on the Verbal, Quantitative, and Analytical Writing sections. The test must have been taken no longer than five years prior to application.

o Miller Analogies Test (MAT) score. The test must have been taken no longer than five years prior to application.

Completion of an undergraduate statistics course with a grade of "C" or better.

Submission of a statement addressing how an M.S.N. will help you attain

your professional and personal goals. Three professional/academic recommendation letters

Students who, for academic or disciplinary reasons, are not eligible to register in the college or university last attended will not be admitted for graduate study.

Possess a current unencumbered Registered Nurse license to practice nursing in a state or territory of the United States.

Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume. Approval by the Nursing Department Graduate Admissions Committee.

If an applicant is unable to meet the above criteria, they may petition the Nursing Department Graduate Program Committee and request a special review.

Please note that upon admission the M.S.N. student will receive information

concerning current UWF Nursing Department requirements for enrollment. These include, but are not limited to: physical examination Level 2 criminal background check; drug screen; VECHS fingerprinting; AHA BCLS certification; proof of

professional liability insurance; proof of immunizations and proof of personal health insurance. Students are responsible for their own personal health insurance

coverage. The University and/or Department of Nursing will not be liable for a student’s health care coverage or costs. Provisional Admission

With approval from the department, students who do not have all application materials available at the time of admission may be granted provisional admission

by the Graduate School. Provisional admission is appropriate for circumstances such as when the undergraduate institution has not posted the awarding of the

baccalaureate degree, when graduate admissions has not received the applicant's official standardized test score, or when information required by the department is incomplete. Students who are granted provisional admission must submit all



Created Fall 2013

application materials during the first semester of graduate study or risk removal by the Graduate School of their status to pursue graduate study.

Conditional Admission

Students who do not meet the criteria for regular admission may be admitted by a department on a conditional basis. Also, students who have graduated from a recognized, although non-accredited, institution may be admitted on a conditional

basis. Students admitted on a conditional basis are permitted to register for up to 12 semester hours, identified by the department as appropriate to the degree,

and must earn at least a grade of "B" on each of those courses or risk removal of their status to pursue graduate study. Admission on a conditional basis should not be routine.

Graduation Application

By the end of the first week of the semester preceding graduation, a graduation application form (available online from the Office of the Registrar: http://uwf.edu/registrar/graduinstr.cfm) must be completed and submitted to the

Nursing Department MSN Advisor. Students are responsible for completion and submission of these forms by the published deadline (see academic calendar).

Master's Degree Requirements

Requirements for a master's degree from UWF are listed below. The colleges and departments may have requirements which exceed these minimums. Please consult

the individual departments and the individual program descriptions in this Catalog for details. Minimum requirements are the following:

Students must be admitted and enroll at UWF for a minimum of one

semester as degree-seeking in the degree program for which a degree is awarded;

Completion of minimum 30 semester hours in an approved program; Completion of minimum 15 semester hours of coursework at the 6000 level

or above;

Completion of minimum 24 semester hours of credit at UWF. The department offering the program may require additional residency;

Graduate GPA of a minimum of 3.0, refer to GPA Requirement for more information;

Complete degree requirements within six years from the date the UWF

degree is awarded, refer to the Time to Degree requirement for more information;

A degree will not be awarded for a student on academic probation or suspension;

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

http://uwf.edu/registrar/graduinstr.cfm

http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/academicpolicies/general/#masters

http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/academicpolicies/general/#timetodegree



Created Fall 2013

Master's students must enroll as degree-seeking for a minimum of one semester at UWF within the last five years of the date the degree is to be

awarded. Students who need to be readmitted will be required to meet the degree requirements of the current Catalog.

Requirements for Second UWF Master's Degree

Requirements listed below are applicable for students who already hold a master's degree from UWF or who are pursuing two masters' degrees simultaneously. Students who have earned a master's degree from another institution must meet

the requirements listed under Master's Degree Requirements.

Graduate students may be candidates for two master's degrees at UWF. Candidacy in two separate master's programs may be held in overlapping time periods. Candidates must meet the conditions of graduate status

stipulated by both departments; Since a master's degree represents a level of attainment, some (or all)

courses included in one graduate program may be used by another department to satisfy the formal requirements for a second graduate degree. A minimum of 18 semester hours must be taken for the second graduate

degree which were not a part of the first degree; A degree will not be awarded for a student on academic probation or

suspension; Master's students must be admitted and enroll at UWF for a minimum of one

semester as degree-seeking in the degree program for which a degree is awarded;

Master's students must enroll as degree-seeking for a minimum of one

semester at UWF within the last five years of the date the degree is to be awarded. Students who need to be readmitted will be required to meet the

degree requirements of the current Catalog.

A second master's degree may not be earned in the same program area.

Application for Graduation

Students fulfilling requirements for a UWF master's or specialist degree must

submit an "Application for Graduation" to their major departments by the application deadline stated in the Academic Calendar. Graduate students apply for graduation the semester prior to the project defense. Graduation application forms

are available on the Office of the Registrar website. Retroactive graduation to a prior semester will not be approved.

Commencement

Commencement ceremonies at UWF are held twice a year, fall and spring, for students graduating with a Baccalaureate, Master's, Specialist, or Doctorate degree.

http://catalog.uwf.edu/academiccalendar/

http://uwf.edu/registrar/



Created Fall 2013

Doctoral students must be approved by the Graduate School prior to participating in the commencement ceremony.

Those master's students who plan to graduate in the summer should apply for

summer graduation only. Prospective summer graduates have the option to participate in either the preceding spring or following fall ceremony. Doctoral

students intending to graduate in the summer may not participate in the spring ceremony unless the dissertation has been fully approved and participation is

approved by the Dean of the Graduate School. "Applications for Graduation" should be turned in to the major department by the date stated in the Academic Calendar in this Catalog. Students will receive information about graduation through their

student e-mail accounts. Commencement information is also available on the web at uwf.edu/commencement. UWF does not have a graduation honors program for

master's, specialist, and doctoral students.

Degree Audit System

The Student Academic Support System (SASS) identifies and tracks all graduation requirements for each master's degree at the University. Students may check their

individual progress toward degree completion by reviewing their SASS audit, which is available in MyUWF. The SASS audit is used for their final graduation check and a

completed (bannered) audit is required before a master's degree is awarded.

Substitution of Graduation Requirements for Students with Disabilities

Refer to Substitution of Graduation Requirements for Students with Disabilities in the General Policies section of this Catalog.

Progression in the MSN Program

Students in the MSN program are admitted in cohort groups to assure that courses will be offered in the sequence and semesters needed to complete a Program of

Study (POS) in a timely manner. Students may progress on a full-time or part-time basis but all MSN courses must be completed within 6 years from admission. Should a student need to alter their plan of study, contact with the program advisor

is necessary to ensure the students eligibility through educational records and academic standings as well as space availability in the courses.

Students are required to perform at a minimal grade point level of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) on all courses.

Students may repeat the same nursing course only once, and on a space-available basis.

STUDENT PROGRESSION


http://uwf.edu/commencement

http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/academicpolicies/general/#substitutionofgraduationrequirementsforstudentswithdisabilities



Created Fall 2013

Students are allowed to repeat two different nursing courses before mandatory withdrawal from the nursing major.

Students with a grade below “B” in a nursing course at midterm will be issued a letter of warning of their academic standing via email.

The faculty of the Department of Nursing reserves the right to retain only those students who satisfy the requirements of scholarship, and adhere to behaviors that

conform to Florida Nurse Practice Act.

Orientation

The Graduate School, in collaboration with various other units of the University,

hosts a New Graduate Student Orientation. The orientation provides newly admitted graduate students with an overview of University services and extracurricular opportunities and an understanding of what to expect academically

and financially as UWF graduate students. Graduate students attending the orientation have the opportunity to hear from representatives of academic

departments, the Graduate Student Association, and other campus organizations. Additionally, students will receive information on how to purchase text books,

parking permits, and their Nautilus Card. Supplementary orientation programs may be offered by individual academic departments.

For the graduate student that is not available to attend the on campus orientation.

A virtual orientation is available http://uwf.edu/graduate/new_student_orientation.html. The flexible, new online

platform allows you to attend orientation 100% online, at your own convenience.

Academic Advising

Each degree-seeking graduate student is assigned to a faculty member to assist in planning academic programs; provide guidance in personal, academic, and

professional development; and foster interaction among students and faculty.

Students are responsible for accuracy and updating of SASS degree audit

(http://uwf.edu/sass/index.cfm?link=1) to ensure all graduation requirements are met, including having all college level transcripts submitted and accurately recorded by Admissions (including high school transcripts for foreign language). Students are

encouraged to maintain contact with the program advisor throughout their program of study to ensure current and factual information pertaining to the students’

course of study and graduation. Registration in nursing courses requires permission codes assigned by the advisor. Students have access to their advisor during posted office hours, by email, or by appointment.

Online Campus

The Academic Technology Center is responsible for UWF’s Online Campus (OLC). The OLC supports all fully online, blended, and web-conferencing degree and

http://uwf.edu/graduate/new_student_orientation.html

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certificate programs. The OLC website (onlinecampus.uwf.edu) provides one-stop shopping for distance learning students to assist in planning online degrees,

certificates, and educational experiences. Students may access the website for advisement, admissions procedures, registration, information about taking online

classes, and graduation. The Online Campus provides many helpful tips and links to the same quality services and student support available on our University of West Florida campuses. Students participating in the Online Campus will have access to

advisors, military education coordinators, and others to assist the online learner’s overall educational experience.

Online Campus Programs Almost 30 degree and certificate programs are offered through the UWF Online

Campus. Admittance to any of our online degree or online certificate programs provides the opportunity to apply for an out-of-state tuition waiver that reduces out-of-state tuition substantially (See out-of-state tuition waiver information

below). Students enrolling in these programs will experience interactive, personalized strategies for course delivery as well as access to the Online Campus

staff that stand ready to provide information to online students. Programs currently offered through the Online Campus can be found at: onlinecampus.uwf.edu and in the Catalog. State Employee Tuition Fee Waiver

State of Florida employees classified as permanent full-time employees may be

allowed to register on a space-available basis at the University for a maximum of six semester hours of tuition-free courses per semester. Admission, readmission, and registration information may be obtained by contacting either the Graduate

School or the Office of the Registrar. Students using the state employee fee waiver may register beginning the first day of classes (drop/add period). Late registration

fees will be waived by the Office of the Registrar when the waiver form is submitted. Since registration is on a space available basis, waivers will not be applied to any course for which the student is registered prior to the first day of

classes. Permission to enter a closed class is not permitted for state employee registrations. State employees attending the Pensacola campus are required to

purchase a Nautilus Card and parking decal. Waivers may not be used for the following types of courses:

Directed independent studies Internships

Theses Dissertations

Practicums Music & theatre performance courses Non-credit (audit) courses

Continuing education courses Sponsored credit courses

Non-fundable courses





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Any one-on-one course situations

State employee waiver forms must be submitted to the Office of the Registrar no later than the close of the drop/add period. It is the responsibility of the employee

to ensure that the waiver form includes the appropriate courses for which a student is registered. When necessary, the student must contact the employing agency for

a corrected or a supplemental waiver form for courses not included on the original waiver form. It is suggested that alternate courses be included on the original

waiver form in case an employee may not be able to register for one or more requested courses. The waiver form will not be processed if a state employee pre-registers and then submits a waiver form for the pre-registered course(s) after the

fact. Specific details and forms are available at uwf.edu/registrar/stateemployee.cfm.

Out-of-State Tuition Waivers

Waivers to cover all or part of the out-of-state portion of assessed tuition may be available for qualified students admitted to specific online degree and online certificate programs. Students admitted to programs and certificates listed under

Eligible Programs on the Online Campus website (onlinecampus.uwf.edu/affordable/waivers.cfm) and are 1) a non-Florida resident

and 2) enrolled in Online Campus (OLC coded) courses may be eligible for the waiver.

Non-Resident members of the U.S. Armed Services on active duty stationed in

Florida and their spouses and dependent children do not require waivers because they are granted Temporary Florida Residency.

Students enrolled through the SREB Academic Common Market are not eligible for the out-of-state tuition waiver. In some instances, the University may apply third

party payments prior to applying waivers.

Notes:

Renewal of waivers is NOT automatic.

o Students must apply for a distance learning tuition waiver each semester by completing the "Tuition Waiver" form located on the UWF Online Campus website at

(secure.uwf.edu/uwfonline/Affordable/waiverForm.cfm). Students must pay all other assessed tuition and fees.

Students withdrawing from a course or from the University are liable for fee payment as established by standard University policy. Students will not be liable for the amount covered by out-of-state tuition waivers awarded.

Online Campus Fee

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An online campus fee will be assessed each semester to students participating in fully online courses and mobile device delivered courses. This fee covers the cost of

supporting and improving Online Campus offerings and services.

Online Campus Student Support

The Online Campus provides general support services and linkages to all campus-wide support services that may be required by a distance learning student. The Online Campus can serve as the primary point of contact for fully online student

needs. OLC staff can be reached via email at [email protected], toll free at 1-888-529-1823, or locally at (850) 473-7468. Students requiring more specialized support services will be transferred internally to the appropriate point of contact.

Military Education Advising

Military students seeking distance learning certificate and degree programs may obtain assistance with overall program planning aligning to SOC criteria along with

the military students’ transcripts, including school house training aligned to ACE criteria, other institutional credits, etc. Military students seeking distance learning

programs and certificates can contact the Online Campus for assistance. Contact the Military Education Advisor via email at [email protected].

Frequently Used Services

The following services may also be needed by the distance student:

Help Desk

The ITS Help Desk is available to provide technical support to the online learning student. Contact the Help Desk directly for technical questions through telephone (850) 474-2075 or [email protected].

UWF Library

The University of West Florida Library offers an array of services, including access to the catalog and numerous online databases. Many of these databases include full-text journal articles or information. To access library services and databases,

you must be a currently enrolled UWF student and have a UWF ID. To learn more about how the library can assist you, visit the library website (library.uwf.edu) and select the ONLINE LEARNERS LIBRARY GUIDE Quick Link. You may also contact the

Library Information Help Desk at (850) 474-2424.

Student Responsibility

The success of online learning relies heavily on the commitment of the student to participate fully in class assignments, discussions, and in supporting class members




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while building an online learning community. Each semester students should expect to receive an e-mail confirmation of their Online Learning course registration as well

as providing details on how to learn online. The Online Campus website provides links to the UWF Bookstore as well as to all of the support services required for the

student experience. Students should enter their online course(s) through the MyUWF portal at my.uwf.edu. Students are expected to have a UWF e-mail account that must be checked at least three times a week to be an active participant in

online courses. Students having difficulty should contact the Online Campus for guidance ([email protected] or 1-888-529-1823).

Scholastic Standards

Students must earn a grade of B or better in all required graduate nursing courses. Students earning less than a B in any required nursing course may repeat that course only once and on a space-available basis. Students may repeat no more

than two nursing courses.

Grading Practices

The Department of Nursing adheres to the grading practices established by the university as discussed in The University of West Florida catalog. Each faculty

member establishes the specific grading plan for assigned courses. Each course syllabus includes the evaluation criteria.

Students are evaluated on meeting the prescribed

objectives for each course. All course objectives must be completed successfully with grade of ‘B’

(3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better in order to progress in the nursing program. Instructors file course grades with the registrar at the end of each

semester.

Policy Regarding Incompletes

An "incomplete" grade will be used only in cases of true hardship when unanticipated extenuating circumstances have resulted in the student's being

unable to complete course requirements by the end of the semester. An "incomplete" may be granted at the discretion of the faculty in consultation with the

department chair. In rare instances, in which this occurs, the following policies are in effect:

Grading Scale

A 93 – 100 *C+ 77 – 79

A- 90 – 92 *C 73 – 76

B+ 87 – 89 *C- 70 – 72

B 83 – 86 *D+ 67 –69

*B- 80 – 82 *D 63- 66

*Constitutes a failure in course

SCHOLASTIC STANDARDS

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All university policies regarding incomplete are applicable to nursing courses. Refer to the UWF Catalog.

Incomplete will not be used to allow for remedial work; student work must be passing.

Students will receive a date by which the incomplete must be removed. Students are required to remove the incomplete before enrolling in the next nursing course.

Withdrawal Policies

The option of withdrawing from a course and receiving a grade of "W" is possible within the withdrawal period listed on the academic calendar each semester. Students electing to take a "W" in a nursing course are to

understand that re-enrollment in that course is subject to the review of the Faculty and space availability. The student is to be encouraged to explore all

other alternatives before taking such action.

See University guidelines for the procedure that must be followed regarding

withdrawal. Students who do not follow the required University procedure to officially withdraw from a course will receive an "F" grade.

Students withdrawing from the program will be requested to complete an Exit Questionnaire as part of the withdrawal process.

Cancelation of Registration

Students may cancel registration by dropping all courses through MyUWF or

notifying the Office of the Registrar in writing prior to the last day of drop/add. Students may also drop individual courses through MyUWF before the end of the drop/add period. Students who cancel their registration or drop courses within this

time frame are not liable for tuition or fees. The University may cancel the registration of a student whose fees are not paid or who has not received

authorized deferred payment status as of the close of the fee payment period. Students are responsible for reviewing registration and account information in MyUWF.

Individual Class Withdrawal

After the drop/add period, a student may withdraw from a course while remaining in other course(s) through approximately the tenth week of instruction of any fall or spring semester*. A grade of “W” will be assigned during this period. Students may

process withdrawals online through the "Withdrawal" app in MyUWF. Students also have the option of submitting a withdrawal form to the Office of the Registrar, building 18, on the Pensacola campus or at the UWF Emerald Coast - Fort Walton

Beach.

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Students are encouraged to consult with their advisor prior to withdrawing from classes and to contact the Office of Financial Aid and the Cashiers Office for

questions regarding fee liability or financial aid awards. Students who withdraw are not enrolled in the class as of the date the withdrawal is processed. Enrollment

status (i.e. full-time, part-time) will be adjusted based on the date of withdrawal. Withdrawals count as an attempted course for repeat course surcharges and excel hours. Individual class withdrawals may not be processed may not be processed

after the published deadline. Students who do not officially withdraw will be assigned a standard letter grade reflective of the performance in the course. See

Late Withdrawal Policy below.

Withdraw from All Courses (University Withdrawal)

Currently enrolled students may withdraw through MyUWF. Students withdrawing from all courses prior to the end of the 4th week* of a full semester will receive a grade of “WR” (partial refund). A grade of “WR” is not computed in the UWF GPA.

Students withdrawing from all courses after the fourth week through the end of the tenth week of any fall or spring semester will receive a grade of “W” in each course*. Students withdrawing after the designated automatic “W” deadline

through the last day of instruction will be assigned a grade of “W” or “WF” at the discretion of the course instructor(s). Grades of “WF” are computed in the UWF

GPA. Withdrawal from all courses does not prevent registration for future terms. Students are not required to apply for readmission unless they have not enrolled at UWF for three or more consecutive academic semesters (including summers).

Students are encouraged to consult with their advisors before withdrawing from classes and to contact the Office of Financial Aid and the Cashiers Office for

questions regarding fee liability or financial aid awards. Students who withdraw from all classes are not enrolled as of the date the withdrawal is processed. Enrollment status will be adjusted based on the date of withdrawal.

Medical Withdrawals

To qualify for a medical withdrawal, the student is required to complete and submit the Medical Withdrawal Form with supporting documentation to the Dean of Students Office (DSO), Building 21/Room 130. Medical documentation is needed

from a physician, counselor, or other licensed health care provider and should: include the date(s) of treatment, the nature of the illness/injury; indicate whether the illness or injury is severe enough to necessitate a withdrawal for the current or

prior semester.

The DSO will review the documentation and determine whether the criteria for a medical withdrawal have been met. The student will receive email notification once the decision has been made. The medical withdrawal process normally takes 10 to

14 working days.

Questions regarding the medical withdrawal process may be directed to the Dean of Students Office or the Office of the Registrar.




Created Fall 2013

Withdrawals for Active Duty Military Service

In the case of a student called to active duty military service or change of orders due to military conflict within the semester, the student must contact the Office of

the Registrar and provide a copy of military orders upon receipt of orders. Students will have the option of withdrawing with a complete refund, withdrawal with a grade

of “W”, or accepting incomplete grades to allow the student to complete the courses at a later date. Students will be asked to notify the University of the desired option.

The transcripts of students who have contacted the Office of the Registrar as stated above and are subsequently withdrawn, awarded refunds, or given incomplete

grades will be annotated with appropriate statement indicating action taken was due to military active duty service.

Late Withdrawal Policy

A request for a late withdrawal (individual class or university, past the published deadlines) is considered an appeal for a waiver of a university policy or regulation and must be reviewed by the Academic Appeals Committee. Final authority for waivers of academic university regulations rests with the Academic Appeals

Committee. The Office of the Registrar reports the Committee's decision and has no authority to influence any decision.

Late withdrawals may be approved only for the following reasons (which must be

documented):

1. A death in the immediate family 2. Serious illness of the student or an immediate family member

3. A situation deemed similar to categories 1 and 2 by all in the approval process

4. Withdrawal due to Military Service (Florida Statute 1004.07)

5. National Guard Troops Ordered into Active Service (Florida Statute 250.482)

Students who are requesting a late withdrawal must submit the following in order for the appeal to be considered by the Academic Appeals Committee:

Appeal for a Late Class or University Withdrawal form which must include the

recommendations (in order) of the advisor, instructor, and department chairperson of the course. If the instructor is no longer at UWF, the

department chairperson can sign for the instructor. A separate form is required for each course in the semester for University Withdrawals.

A one-page typed statement fully explaining the reasons for the appeal; the

statement should include the course of events in chronological order with dates specified, what prevented your academic success in the course, and

why you did not withdraw by the withdrawal deadline. Documentation which supports your reasons to appeal:

o All documentation is subject to verification.

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o Medical documentation should be submitted from a health care provider, psychologist, or counselor on official letterhead. The

documentation should include the nature and duration of the illness/personal problems during the semester in question as well as

an indication whether the illness/personal problems interfered significantly with your ability to perform academically. The documentation should also include dates of services provided, the

provider's recommendation or support of the appeal, and the provider's signature.

o Documentation of a death would include a death certificate or obituary stating the relationship of the deceased to the student.

o Appeals will not be considered without documentation.

Appeals for Fee Refunds

Fee appeals should be addressed to the Cashiers Office in Building 20. Appeals will be considered by the Fee Appeals Committee for documented, extenuating circumstances.

Students may be allowed to withdraw from a course or the University (all courses)

with a full refund of tuition fees for the following situations (documentation required):

1. Call to active military duty or enlistment in active military service (copy of

official orders or letter signed by commanding officer on official military letterhead required);

2. Death of the student or death in the immediate family (parent, spouse, child,

sibling—copy of obituary notice or death certificate required); or 3. Student’s illness of such duration and severity, as confirmed in writing by a

physician, that completion of the term is precluded.

Withdrawal from courses at the University does not automatically relieve the student from fee payment liability in the case of deferred payment status such as

VA notes, tuition loan notes, and financial aid pending status.

Students in a deferred status should consult the Cashiers Office regarding fee liability.

* See the Academic Calendar for specific deadlines including summer and short

term dates.

Reinstatement for Canceled Registration

Reinstatements for canceled registrations are not automatic. To be considered for reinstatement after the deletion of courses for non-payment requires approval of

the Office of the Registrar. The student must submit an appeal to the Registrar outlining the reason for the request for reinstatement. If the reinstatement is




Created Fall 2013

approved, the student must make payment of all registration fees for the identical classes for which registration was previously canceled, the $100 late registration

fee, the $100 late payment fee, and payment of all delinquent liabilities. Appeals for reinstatement are submitted to the Office of the Registrar. The "Reinstatement from

Canceled Registration" form is available through the Registrar’s home page at uwf.edu/registrar.

Final Examinations

Final examination periods consist of 150 minutes for courses taught in Term A of the fall and spring semesters. Exams are scheduled during the week of final exams of the fall and spring semesters and during the last week of classes of the summer

semester (see the Academic Calendar). Final exams are listed on students’ registration schedules and may be viewed in MyUWF. Final examinations may be scheduled on Saturday.

Plagiarism Policy

Plagiarism is defined by the University as "the act of representing the ideas, words,

creations, or work of another as one's own. Should a student be found plagiarizing in a paper, the student will be reported by the faculty member to the Nursing Program Director & follow the process described in the University's Student Life

Handbook Plagiarism is a serious offense in academia & may result in expulsion from the University. The UWF library has an excellent tutorial on plagiarism found

at http://library.uwf.edu/tutorials/writing_skills/avoiding_plagiarism.cfm

Policies Regarding Dismissal

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of professional and academic integrity at all times. Students are subject to dismissal from the MSN

program for committing one or more of the following infractions.

Falsification of records and reports

Cheating on an examination, quiz, or any other assignment Plagiarism, which is the presentation of another's work as if it were the

student's own Violation of client and/or agency confidential information Violation of University of West Florida student conduct policies

Violation of the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics Violation of the Florida Nurse Practice Act

Violation of HIPPA federal law Students who fail to make satisfactory academic and course progress may be dismissed from the program.

A student whose personal integrity, health or behaviors demonstrate unfitness to continue the nursing program may be dismissed from the program or

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withdrawn from a given course; students considered by faculty member(s) to be unsafe practitioners will be dismissed from the program.

A course deficiency letter will be issued to the student by the faculty when any

behavior is observed that places the student at risk for failure and/or dismissal from the nursing program. If a second course deficiency letter is issued to a student during their enrollment in the nursing program, the student's progression in the

program will be reviewed by the faculty and progression in the program will be contingent upon the approval of the faculty Faculty/Student Communication Professional communication between faculty and students is of utmost importance in this

program. If the student has any questions about a practicum or course assignment, the

student should not hesitate to contact the faculty via email or phone. The faculties have

designed office hours which are posted on the course syllabi and the eLearning course home

page. Faculty will provide contact email and telephone numbers at the beginning of each

course for students.

Student Records

Once students have been admitted to the nursing program, student files are kept in

a central location within the Nursing Department Office. Files containing student records are under supervision or locked at all times. Only faculty and other

appropriate institutional officials have access to these records.

Name/Address Change

Changes in local and/or permanent addresses, telephone number, and change in

name are to be reported as soon as possible to both the University Registrar's Office and the Department of Nursing. The form to request a name change is

available in the Office of the Registrar, Bldg. 18 on the Pensacola campus. You must provide documentation verifying your new name (i.e., a new social security card or driver's license). Change may also be made by completing the appropriate

section of the Student Address and Name Change Form, attaching appropriate documentation, and submitting to the UWF Registrar's Office by mail - 11000

University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514 or by fax - (850.473.7345).

Electronic Records

https://my.uwf.edu/ gives currently enrolled UWF students access to their

electronic records. Students can view grades, class schedule, financial aid status, access registration services, and other services.

STUDENT POLICIES

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Professional Liability Insurance

Nursing is a profession in which its members are accountable. The University does

not provide liability insurance coverage for the MSN student. Coverage obtained in your work setting does not cover you as a student and proof of professional liability insurance for the entire time you are enrolled as a student in the MSN program is

mandatory in the amounts of $1 million per incident and $3 million aggregate.

*****************************************************

General University policies and procedures are published online. University policies,

as well as Departmental and program policies and procedures, extend to all sites where students are engaged in the role of nursing student.

Computer Requirement University of West Florida Nursing Program recommends that students have the

following (minimum) technology competencies. All students must have access to a computer, and be proficient in word processing, e-mail, file transfer and literary

searches. Registration can be done by computer, ALL of the nursing courses in the MSN program are on-line and departmental communications are ALL sent via e-mail. Specifically, the student must be able:

Access course and program material through MyUWF, elearning, and

selected publishers sites Use email and post assignments to course discussion forums and Dropbox Complete, send, and receive assignments by faculty and communicate with

other students using email and attachments/files Read/print email and attachments/files from students, staff, and faculty

Use the UWF Pace Library online services for research and completion of course assignments

Create and upload PowerPoint presentations Use appropriate software for the course/department (standard Microsoft products include MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint)

Submit word documents in the following file formats ONLY: .doc .docx .rtf Use CD-ROMs when required as part of course assignments

Use an appropriate anti-virus application to ensure the files transmitted and received are virus-free

Navigate and evaluate web sites

Purchase of internet connection and home computer is recommended. While many students prefer the convenience of doing their course work on

their own personal computer, computer access is available in other ways for students who do not own a computer. On the UWF campus, Internet and E-

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mail access is available to all enrolled students in the SAIL (Student Access to Information Lab) Facility 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

E-Mail

Communication between faculty and students via e-mail is essential for successful completion of course work. Students have a UWF E-mail address that must be

activated by the student. This is the only address the faculty will use and it is the students' responsibility to forward mail to a preferred provider. The E-mail

address will be made available to other students within the course in which the student is enrolled. Exception to this policy will require a written request from the student.

APA Guidelines:

American Psychological Association (APA) 6th Edition is the formal writing style adopted by the University of West Florida, Department of Nursing. All written

assignments are to demonstrate a professional level of scholarship by adhering to the current American Psychological Association (APA) format. The APA manual

contains specifications for researching, writing, documenting and formatting type written work. Guidelines for writing in APA style may be found in the 6th edition publication manual and at the following internet site: http://apastyle.org. The UWF

Writing Lab also has useful guides for APA style and a paper evaluation service.

Due Dates:

Papers will be due on the assigned day by a time selected by the faculty member. Any paper received after the due date or specified time will not be accepted.

Exceptions to the due date will be made only under special circumstances or if negotiated before the paper is due.

Format:

Papers are to be computer generated, grammatically correct, and referenced appropriately. Students are expected to follow APA format as designated in the APA

Publication Manual 6th edition, which serves as the guide for written work. Points may be deducted for work that does not follow proper format. The exact amount of

points deducted will be designated in each course syllabi.

Grading Requests:

Students must keep a copy of the final paper submitted. If a student desires a

second reading of a paper, a copy of the final paper product may be submitted to

APA WRITING STYLE and TURNITIN

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the Graduate Program Coordinator with a written request. The Coordinator will designate who will be the second reader. The final grade will be determined by

averaging the original paper grade and the grade given by the second reader.

Writing Assistance:

The Writing Center, Building 51, houses the UWF Writing Lab, Language Lab, and other areas that offer services to UWF students, faculty, administrators, and staff.

Any university student, whether or not enrolled in a composition course, may use the Writing Lab for help with writing problems. The Writing Lab offers paper reading/critiquing and tutoring in grammar and usage, mechanics, and sentence

structure. Graduate faculties encourage MSN students to seek assistance with any writing issues early in their academic studies. Access this link for further

information: http://uwf.edu/writelab/about/.

Turnitin:

UWF maintains a university license agreement for an online text matching service called TurnItIn. The instructor may use the TurnItIn service to determine the originality of student papers. If the instructor submits your paper to TurnItIn, it will

be stored in a TurnItIn database for as long as the service remains in existence. If you object to this storage of your paper:

1. You must notify the instructor no later than two weeks after the start of the

class.

2. The instructor will utilize other services and techniques to evaluate your work for evidence of appropriate authorship practices.

Evidence-Based Project Guidelines:

1. The evidence-based project results in an evidence-based scholarly paper.

Types of projects include but are not limited to the following: a. Creation of an innovative clinical/teaching program.

b. Program evaluation of a clinical/teaching program. c. Participation with a faculty member on an evidence-based research

project resulting in a scholarly paper or professional presentation.

d. Development and/or implementation of evidence-based systematic review of the literature in a specified area.

e. Development and/or implementation of an evidence-based clinical protocol.

f. Development of a detailed evidence based teaching project.

2. The organization of the project should be assembled as follows: a. Introduction (including overview of goals and significance of the

project) b. Theoretical/conceptual framework

c. Review of the literature d. Plan for the implementation of the project

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e. Implementation and evaluation of the project f. Appendices

g. References h. Biographical Sketch

3. A final professional copy of the Evidence Based Project will be located in the Department of Nursing.

University and Department Requirements

Immunization Requirements

All students, both graduate and undergraduate, are required to meet the immunization requirements listed below prior to registration.

I. Measles/Mumps and Rubella

A. Requirements: All students born after December 31, 1956 must present

documented proof of immunity to Measles (Rubeola) and German Measles (Rubella), in one of the three ways described below:

1. Proof of 2 doses of MMR (Measles/Mumps/Rubella) received at least 28 days apart or 2 doses of Measles and 1 dose of Rubella.

a. Vaccinations must have been received after your first birthday.

b. Vaccinations must have been received in 1969 or later.

2. Proof of immunity by way of a positive laboratory test known as a titer (IgG Rubeola titer or IgG Rubella titer). A copy of the lab report which includes the date of the test must be submitted.

3. A written statement from a healthcare provider documenting a diagnosis of Measles (Rubeola). The statement must be on official medical office stationery, include the date of diagnosis, and be signed by a physician. This is only acceptable

for a diagnosis of Measles.

B. Exceptions: Student may apply for an exception to the immunization requirement for Measles/Mumps and Rubella if they meet one of the following

criteria and submit the appropriate documentation.

1. Medical Basis - The student must provide a letter from a healthcare provider, signed on official medical stationery, stating the medical reason(s) why the student

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Created Fall 2013

is not able to receive the Measles/Mumps and/or Rubella vaccine(s), and indicating if this is a temporary or permanent condition.

2. Religious Basis - The student (or the student's parent/guardian if under 18 years

old) must provide a letter stating the student's religious beliefs do not permit him/her to receive vaccinations.

3. Active Duty Military - Active duty military personnel may complete a

Measles/Mumps and Rubella waiver form if documentation of immunizations is unavailable at the time of registration. A copy of the individual's military ID is

required with the waiver.

4. On-Line Students - Students who are enrolled in on-line courses only and who will not be physically present in any UWF campus may complete a Measles/Mumps and Rubella waiver form. Should such students seek to register for a face-to-face

course, they must comply with Section IA, above.

II. Meningitis and Hepatitis B

A. All UWF undergraduate and graduate students, including on-line students must provide documentation of vaccinations against Meningococcal Meningitis and

Hepatitis B or complete the Meningitis/Hepatitis Waiver form indicating their informed decision not to be vaccinated for the appropriate declined vaccination. If

the student is under the age of 18, the waiver form must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.

B. Students continuously enrolled since June 30, 2008 or before who have not lived

in University housing since June 30, 2008 are exempt from this requirement.

III. Submission of Documentation

Immunization forms including waiver forms and other documentation may be presented in person or via mail, fax or email to the University of West Florida, Student Health Services, 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514. The

email address is [email protected] and the fax number is (850) 857-6100. If the student is mailing documentation, the student must include his/her name, birth

date and UWF ID number. Photocopies are acceptable. Originals will not be returned. If students have questions or need any additional information about these illnesses or the vaccinations, they should visit the Student Health Services' website

at www.uwf.edu/healthcenter.

MMR waiver form: http://www.uwf.edu/healthcenter/MMR%202012%20waiver.pdf

Meningitis/Hepatitis waiver form: http://www.uwf.edu/healthcenter/Meningitis.pdf


http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/afteradmission/www.uwf.edu/healthcenter

http://www.uwf.edu/healthcenter/MMR%202012%20waiver.pdf

http://www.uwf.edu/healthcenter/Meningitis.pdf



Created Fall 2013

POLICY:

The UWF Department of Nursing will require all nursing students to undergo a

routine drug screen. Nursing students are not to be involved in the sale, manufacture, distribution, purchase, use, or possession of alcohol or non-

prescribed drugs. Student failure to submit to a drug screen, attempting to tamper with, contaminating, or switching a sample will result in the student not being allowed

to meet course objectives for the clinical course. Progression in the program will not be permitted.

Positive Results Students who test positive for illicit drugs in their first drug screen required by

University of West Florida Nursing Department will be notified to meet with the UWF Nursing Department Chair. The student will have the option to a repeat

test at his/her own expense within 24 hours of the notification of the positive result. The student must provide proof of the date and time of the drug screen re-tests to the UWF Nursing Department Chair. The student will be suspended

from all nursing activities until the issue is resolved. The results of the test will be considered by the Graduate Program Committee which consists of the

following: the Dean of Arts and Sciences, Nursing Department Chair, Dean of Student Affairs, and Faculty of the student’s current courses. In the case of a positive test, use of the identified drug must be

substantiated by a health care provider as necessary, or will result in dismissal from the UWF nursing program. Decisions of the Nursing

Advisory Panel are final.

Second Test- Positive Results

If the second drug screen is also positive, the student will be dismissed from the Nursing program. The student will not be eligible for continuation or readmission to the Nursing program at any time.

Second Test- Negative Results and Random Follow-up Testing If the second (re-test) drug screen is negative, the student will be allowed to

continue in the nursing program, but the student will be required to have a minimum of one random drug screen at his/her expense during the remainder of

his/her course of study in the nursing program. The timing of the random drug screen(s) will be determined by the UWF Nursing Department Chair or course faculty. The student is required to provide proof to the UWF Nursing

Department Chair that the drug screen was conducted within 24 hours of the written notification. If the random drug screen is positive, the student will be

dismissed from the nursing program, and he/she will not be eligible for continuation or readmission to the Nursing program at any time.

DRUG SCREEN POLICY AND PROCEDURE

BACKGROUND CHECK



Created Fall 2013

Security of Test Results Test results will not be shared, except as necessary, with individuals other than

the Nursing Advisory Panel. All test results will be filed in a locked cabinet within the Nursing Program offices and shall remain confidential except as noted

and to the extent permitted by law.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURE: Prior to a student starting a nursing clinical/practicum course, conducting a nursing

research study or project, or a didactic course that involves contact with patients, a drug screen is required.

Students will be notified not more than 24 hours in advance of the date and time for drug screenings. All charges for drug screening(s) are the

responsibility of the student. If the drug screen indicates an area of concern, the student will be notified

by the UWF Nursing Department Chair. The Graduate program committee will convene to determine the action that needs to be taken. Decisions of the Graduate Program Committee are final.

Test results are confidential with only the Dean of Arts and Sciences, Department Chair, and Dean of Student Affairs. The action may include that

the student submit to a repeat test of body fluids for the presence of illicit drugs at his/her own expense and to have a report sent to the UWF Nursing Department Chair as soon as possible (within 24 hours).

The results of the testing will be considered by the Graduate Program Committee in determining the student’s continuance in the program. The

student will be suspended from all nursing program activities until the issue is resolved. Also, the student may be dismissed from the UWF nursing

program based on testing results.

The report is to be sent to:

Department Chair UWF Nursing Program

11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL 32514

The results of the testing will be considered by the Graduate Program Committee in determining the student’s continuance in the program. The

person will be suspended from all nursing program activities until the issue is resolved. Also, the student may be dismissed from the UWF nursing program based on testing results.

Background check

All UWF Nursing students must have satisfactorily completed a background check through the UWF approved provider.



Created Fall 2013

Fingerprinting

All UWF Nursing students must have fingerprinting performed through the UWF approved provider.

The University of West Florida Department of Nursing expects its students to represent the organization in a manner that reflects high standards of personal integrity, education, and service to patients. It is expected that, as a student in the

nursing program, you will conduct yourself according to the ethical standards as published in the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. Please refer also to

the Florida Nurse Practice Act and the American Nurses’ Association Scope and Standards for more details on the legal requirements for all nurses. The underlying principles of these standards are based on common courtesy and ethical/moral

behavior. These standards are essential for you to grow professionally and to receive the desired trust and respect of all members of the health care professions.

Students may have access to confidential medical/personal client and family information, and to sensitive agency information as part of the course learning

experiences. It is of utmost importance that client/agency confidentiality is observed. Information concerning a client/family or agency is not to be discussed

outside of the didactic setting. Violation of this policy may result in dismissal from the UWF nursing program.

KEYS TO CONFIDENTIALITY

DO NOT discuss patients/personnel/institutions or any identifying data in

public settings such as cafeterias, elevators, hallways, over the phone, with family or friends, with other patients or where patients may overhear you

Discussion of your patient/personnel/institution should only occur in

approved settings such as course discussion forum and assignments Use patient/institution initials in all discussions and on written documents

submitted to the Nursing Department Destroy all notes and computer generated papers after completion of assignment

Protect the integrity of the medical record and do not photocopy or otherwise transmit material from the medical record

If you have concerns about confidentiality, check with your instructor to obtain guidance

Along with failure to exhibit behaviors that reflect the professional standards for legal/ethical conduct, major infractions of conduct and behavior as set forth in the

general university catalogue will be grounds for dismissal from the Nursing Program. These include, but are not limited to, consumption of alcoholic beverages

STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT AND PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR



Created Fall 2013

in a course related activity; illegal drug usage; impaired behavior; language, and/or disruptive behavior with peers, faculty or community.

Confidentiality

Student Rights and Responsibilities

The Department of Nursing adheres to the same policies affecting all students within the university in regard to student rights and regulations. These rights and regulations are summarized in the UWF Student Life Handbook. The handbook is

available to all students at registration and to other interested persons upon request from the Office of Student Affairs.

The 'Student Grievance System' in the UWF Student Life Handbook clearly defines the channel for receipt and consideration of students' views and grievances.

Nursing students adhere to the same policy.

All students have the right to seek knowledge, exchange and debate ideas, form opinions, and express their views. However, it is understood that this knowledge of rights should be balanced with a concomitant knowledge of responsibilities.

UWF Department of Nursing Grievance Procedure

Pursuant to the policies established by the University and published in the UWF

Student Handbook (p. 48), and available on the web at http://uwf.edu/studenthandbook/documents/University%20of%20West%20Florid

a%20Student%20Handbook%202013.pdf, the department of nursing will use the following procedure for addressing student grievances. Student grievances handled under this system can include the following:

1. Problems with student or academic services;

2. Contested grades for courses; 3. Being placed on academic probation or suspension;

4. Readmission actions; or 5. Other academic matters.

The following steps in the process must be adhered to by the Student and the

University:

Step 1: Faculty Level

A student wishing to contest a final course grade must first contact the course instructor to initiate a verbal or written appeal. The student must initiate contact

within 30 calendar days of the grade being available for the student to view online. The student must present a rationale for the appeal and a preferred resolution.

The course instructor receiving the verbal or written appeal shall respond in

writing to the appeal within 10 calendar days. Should the course instructor agree

http://uwf.edu/studenthandbook/documents/University%20of%20West%20Florida%20Student%20Handbook%202013.pdf

http://uwf.edu/studenthandbook/documents/University%20of%20West%20Florida%20Student%20Handbook%202013.pdf



Created Fall 2013

with the appeal he or she will process an appropriate grade change in a timely fashion.

In the event that the course instructor is not available (e.g., no longer employed, on sabbatical, or other long term absence from the workplace) to receive and

respond to the grade appeal the student shall move directly to Step 2.

Step 2: Chair Level

Students not satisfied with the course instructor's response at Step 1 may appeal to the Step 2 representative who will be the Program Coordinator/Department

Chair. This second level appeal must be submitted by the student in writing to the appropriate Program Coordinator’s Office within 10 calendar days of receiving the Step 1 response and must include the following:

1. Date of the appeal

2. The student's name, local address, UWF e-mail address and phone number 3. The course instructor name and course information

4. A concise statement of the rationale for the grade change appeal 5. A statement of any action previously taken to resolve the issue and the

results of these actions 6. The disposition desired by the student

The program director, department chair, or the individual to whom the Step 2 review is designated ("designee") shall review the appeal, discuss it with the

course instructor and/or other pertinent individuals and respond within 10 calendar days of receiving the appeal. The response may include requests for

more information or requests to meet with the student bringing the appeal. The time needed for the response may be extended by the Step 2 representative. It will be the responsibility of the Step 2 representative to inform the student and

the course instructor of any such extensions in response time.

The Step 2 representative will provide the student and course instructor with a written response with his or her findings and decision. If the Step 2 representative finds in favor of the student, the course instructor will be provided with an

opportunity to submit a written rebuttal within 10 calendar days of the Step 2 decision. If the course instructor does not file a rebuttal, the Program

Coordinator/Department Chair will process an appropriate grade change in a timely fashion. If the Step 2 representative does not find in favor of the student, the student may accept the decision or may appeal to the next level.

Step 3: Final Appeal by Student or by Course Instructor

a. Student Appeal: If the student wishes to file an appeal of the Step 2

decision, it must be filed within 10 calendar days of the date of the Step 2

decision with the Office of the Dean of the College in which the course is taught. The student's appeal must be in writing (using the UWF department of nursing procedure for filing a formal complaint form located in the



Created Fall 2013

department of nursing and state the grounds for the appeal. Grounds for the student's appeal are limited to the following:

1. The student's rights, as outlined in this policy, were violated in the appeal process

2. New information is discovered that was not available at the time of the previous reviews, or

3. The information presented does not support the decision

b. Course Instructor Rebuttal: If the course instructor wishes to file a rebuttal to the Step 2 decision, it must be filed within 10 calendar days of the date of the Step 2 decision with the Office of the Dean of the College in which

the course is taught. The course instructor's rebuttal must be in writing and state the reasons why the Step 2 decision is believed to be incorrect or

requiring clarification.

The Dean (or designee) shall review the student's appeal and the course instructor's rebuttal, where applicable, and respond within 10 calendar days of the receipt of the latest filed document. The Dean or designee's response may include

any of the following:

1. A request for more information 2. A request to meet with the course instructor, chair or student involved

3. Referral of the appeal to the College Academic Standards Committee for recommendation

The time needed for the response may be extended by the need to gather

information, scheduling needs, etc. It will be the responsibility of the responding Dean (or designee) to inform the course instructor, program coordinator, department chair and student of any such extensions in response time. The Dean

(or designee) will provide the course instructor, program coordinator, department chair and student with a written response with his or her findings and decision.

This decision shall be the final decision of the University.

NOTE: Semester break (the days between the last day of final examinations and

the first day of class of the next term) shall not be counted as calendar days for the purposes of this appeal process



Departmental Procedure for Filing a Formal Complaint-Form

Definition of a Formal Complaint:



Created Fall 2013

The UWF Department of Nursing defines a formal complaint as a report from a student or other

constituent that expresses a serious concern about the quality of any of our nursing programs or the

conduct of a faculty member, staff member or student. A formal complaint should be initiated when all

other appropriate departmental, college and/or university channels have failed to produce a satisfactory

resolution from the point of view of the complainant.

UWF Nursing Departmental Procedure:

1. Determine if the complaint is one covered by an existing University process such as The UWF

Academic Misconduct Procedure. If not, refer the complainant to the relevant process.

a. The UWF Academic Misconduct Procedure can be located in the UWF Office of

Students Rights and Responsibilities: http://uwf.edu/osrr/ and

http://uwf.edu/academic/policies/misconduct/Academic_Misconduct_Procedure_Instructi

ons.pdf.

b. Departmental student handbooks which delineate Departmental procedures regarding

disciplinary issues:

http://uwf.edu/nursing/graduate/MSN_Student_Handbook_082513_final.pdf.

c. University student handbooks which delineate University policies and procedures

regarding disciplinary issues: http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/ or

http://uwf.edu/govt/pdf/studentresources/Student%20Planner%20and%20Handbook-

2012-13.pdf.

2. Determine if the disagreement or conflict has been directly discussed with the person(s) involved.

If not, facilitate this discussion if appropriate for the situation.

3. If there is no University or College regulation or policy to govern the nature of the complaint, this

form should be completed and forwarded to the Dean’s Office. The Dean will investigate and will

maintain a file of all formal complaints and resolutions.

Formal Complaint Form

Person making complaint: ________________________ Date: ________________________

Email address: _________________________ Tel: ________________________

Person taking complaint :: _________________________ Title: _________________________

Program (if student): _________________________

If you are not a student, what is the nature of your relationship to the College?

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Please describe the nature of the complaint and the date of occurrence:

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

HIPAA STATEMENT

http://uwf.edu/osrr/

http://uwf.edu/academic/policies/misconduct/Academic_Misconduct_Procedure_Instructions.pdf

http://uwf.edu/academic/policies/misconduct/Academic_Misconduct_Procedure_Instructions.pdf

http://uwf.edu/nursing/graduate/MSN_Student_Handbook_082513_final.pdf

http://catalog.uwf.edu/graduate/





Created Fall 2013

All those in healthcare must now comply with the federal regulations of The Administration Simplification Subtitle of the Health Insurance Portability &

Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). This Act requires that individually identifiable patient information be disclosed on a need to know basis only. Care must be taken

to minimize incidental disclosures and must disclose only minimal amounts of information necessary to accomplish the task. The minimum disclosure standard, however, does not apply to requests for information by a healthcare provider for

treatment purposes. For example, if one must administer a medication, you will have full access to the medical record. This is covered by the patient's consent for

treatment. In order to protect patient/client privacy, all personally identifying information must

be removed from student papers, such as care plans and case studies. Information to be removed includes: the individual's name, initials, address, phone number, fax

number and social security number. Student papers may not be copied for careless circulation and handling. These written documents containing private health information must be either carefully stored or shredded to prevent the circulation of

confidential patient information. Confidentiality and privacy also extends to oral communications which extend beyond the need to know for treatment and/or

educational purposes.

HIPAA is a Federal law. Penalties for wrongful disclosure range from fine and/or imprisonment.

Departmental Committees

The Department of Nursing provides for student representation on departmental committees. Through student representation, a mechanism exists for sharing views

and concerns regarding nursing education and departmental policies. Faculty and committee meetings are open to all who wish to attend and due

consideration given to non-members' opinions, although only members and student representatives may vote to decide policy. According to the Faculty Organization

Bylaws students are asked to be members of the following departmental committees: Curriculum Committee; Evaluation Committee; Recruitment, Admission, Retention and Progression Committee; Student Affairs Committee. Due

to the confidential nature of information presented, students are not allowed to participate in the Admissions and Progression Committee.

UWF department of nursing is considering restructuring the organizational committees so that (Curriculum Committee, Evaluation Committee, Recruitment,

Admission, Retention and Progression Committee, Student Affairs Committee) activities and decisions will be addressed by the respective program committee. For

MSN students, this will be the Graduate Program Committee.

DEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEES AND ACTIVITIES



Created Fall 2013

Student Organizations Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing

The Upsilon Kappa Chapter was chartered in 2008

The mission is “to support the learning, knowledge, and professional development of nurses committed to making a difference in health worldwide”

Membership is by invitation only to Master’s nursing students who demonstrate excellence in scholarship as evidenced by the following:

1. Students in graduate programs shall be eligible for membership if they have

achieved excellence according to the standards as approved by the society.

For universities/institutions of higher education that use a 4.0 grade point average (GPA) system to measure academic achievement, graduate students

must have a GPA of at least 3.5. GPAs should be computed according to the policies of the university.

2. Complete at least ¼ of the program of study: Refers to the total number of

semester hours, not limited to nursing courses only.

Financial Aid Financial aid, scholarships, and loans are available to nursing students from various

sources. Students should contact the Office of Financial Aid for specific information. Support Services----Students with Special Needs

Students with a documented disability who require specific examination or course related academic accommodations should contact the Students Disability Resource

Center (SDRC) by email at [email protected] or by phone at (850) 474-2387.



Created Fall 2013

STUDENT HANDBOOK University of West Florida


Signature Page MSN Program

PRINT THIS PAGE

TO VERIFY THAT YOU HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS

MSN STUDENT HANDBOOK SIGN AND DATE

I have received a copy of the Student Handbook for MSN Nursing and understand that I am responsible for knowing and abiding by the contents.

Print Name ________________________________________________________

Signature __________________________________________________________

UWF Student ID ____________________________________________________

Date_________________________________________

Print this page from the pdf file, complete and sign, scan and FAX to the

MSN Coordinator by the end of the first week of class. 850-473-7771

SIGNATURE PAGE



Created Fall 2013



APA Guidelines

APA 6th Edition is the formal writing style adopted by University of West Florida

Department of Nursing. All writing assignments are expected to follow the guidelines of this

writing style. The purpose of this document is to provide general guidelines to help you meet

these requirements. More information can also be found at the APA Style website:

http://www.apastyle.org/

APA Reference Style Guidelines University of West Florida Office of Graduate Studies and Writing Lab

All information excerpted from the

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Sixth Edition

This handout addresses the basics of organizing a manuscript in APA style. Section numbers (for example, 8.03)

correspond with the section numbers in the sixth edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological

Association. Check with your instructor and/or department for specific requirements.

This handout applies to the second printing of the sixth edition of the APA manual. The first printing of the sixth

edition contains numerous errors and is not recommended for use as a guide to APA style. To ensure that your text

is the reprinted edition, it should say “Second printing: October 2009” on the copyright page.

How to Format a Paper in APA Style

The preferred typeface for APA publications is Times New Roman, 12-point font. Arial is no longer a

recommended font.

Double-space between all lines of the manuscript.

Leave uniform margins of one inch on all sides.

Indent the first line of each paragraph using the tab key.

Text should be flush with the left side of the page only, leaving a ragged edge on the right side.

Space twice after punctuation at the end of a sentence.

8.03 Organizing the Manuscript Arrange the pages of the manuscript in the following order:

Title page (numbered page 1)

Abstract (start on a separate page, numbered page 2)

Text (start on a separate page, numbered page 3)

References (start on a separate page)

Tables (start each on a separate page)

Figures (place each on a separate page; include caption on page with figure)



Created Fall 2013

Appendices (start on a separate page)

8.03 Title Page The title page includes the following elements: a manuscript header with a running head and page number, title,

author byline, institutional affiliation, and author note, if applicable.

The manuscript header with the page number and the running head begins on the title page. All elements of this

header—with the exception of the words “Running head:”—should follow on every subsequent page. Use the

header function provided by the word-processing program to insert this information; do not manually type it at the

top of each page.

Choose “different first page” in the header function. The page number should be placed in the right-hand corner of

the header. In the left-hand corner of the header, type “Running head:” followed by an abbreviated title in all

uppercase letters. The abbreviated title should not exceed 50 characters, including punctuation and spaces. Do not

capitalize “head.”

Then, on the top half of the title page, horizontally center the title, author or authors, and institutional affiliation as

follows:

Example title page

If including an author note, see 2.03 in the manual.

2.04 Abstract Begin the abstract on a new page and type “Abstract,” centered, at the top of the page. The abstract itself should be

a single paragraph without paragraph indentation. The purpose of an abstract is to give the reader “a brief,

comprehensive summary of the contents” of an article or paper. One strategy often used when writing an abstract is

to give one or two concise sentences from each section of the paper.

Example abstract page

While there is no recommended length for abstracts in the manual, journal guidelines for abstracts vary, requiring

anywhere from 150 to 250 words.

2.05 Text

Writing Self-Efficacy in Middle-School Students

John R. Smith


Running head: WRITING SELF-EFFICACY 1

WRITING SELF-EFFICACY 2

Abstract

Using qualitative studies, this research explored the various facets of self-

efficacy in relation to adolescent writing and investigated critical-thinking

do not indent

abstract

abbreviated title and

page number appear on

every page following

the title page

author byline should

include middle initial,

if applicable

“the title should summarize

the main idea of the

manuscript simply and, if

possible, with style”



Created Fall 2013

Begin the text on a new page. Type the title of the paper, centered, at the top of the page. The sections of the text

follow each other without a break; do not start a new page when a new heading occurs.

The body of the manuscript begins with the introduction. Because the introduction is clearly identified by its

position in the manuscript, it does not carry a heading labeling it as such.

Example first page of text

Example section of text

3.03 Levels of Headings The levels of headings used to organize a research paper are as follows:

Level 1, Centered, Boldface, Title Case

Level 2, Flush Left, Boldface, Title Case

Level 3, indented, boldface, sentence case paragraph heading ending with a period.

Level 4, indented, boldface, italicized, sentence case paragraph heading ending with a period.

Level 5, indented, italicized, sentence case paragraph heading ending with a period.


Writing Self-Efficacy in Middle-School Students

Bandura (1982) defined self-efficacy as an individual’s belief in his or

her ability to satisfactorily perform a behavior. Writing self-efficacy

translates to a person’s confidence regarding his or her discursive aptitude and

Discussion

This study provides strong evidence that the classroom evaluation

structure can influence student achievement goal orientation. Specifically, we

demonstrated that in a classroom structure that emphasized the importance of

individual goals and effort, learning goals become more salient to students.

paragraphs

indented

space twice after

punctuation at the

end of a sentence

use of first-person

pronouns is now

acceptable, especially

to avoid passive voice

use past tense when

referring to another

researcher’s work or

when reporting the

results of your study

or

use present tense to

discuss implications or

conclusions

The above paragraph is borrowed from the following source:

Self-Brown, S. R., & Mathews, II, S. (2003). Effects of classroom structure on student

achievement. The Journal of Educational Research, 97(2), 106-111.



Created Fall 2013

APA Reference Style Guidelines University of West Florida Office of Graduate Studies and Writing Lab

All information excerpted from the

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, Sixth Edition

This handout addresses the basics of citing sources in a manuscript. The numbers preceding the headings in this

handout correspond to the same sections in the sixth edition of the manual. Check with your instructor and/or

department for specific requirements.

How to Credit Sources in the Text

When using ideas or words from a source, whether quoted or paraphrased, you must give credit to the author or

authors of the source. Credit may be given one of two ways: a) through a parenthetical citation following the quoted

or paraphrased material or b) by directly mentioning the author and year in the text in conjunction with the quoted or

paraphrased material.

For a parenthetical citation, list the following at the end of the sentence: author’s name, year of publication, and

page number, separated by commas. A period follows the citation:

For an in-text citation, the year of publication is always mentioned in conjunction with the author’s name as follows.

The year follows the author, but the page number follows the quotation:

Include the page number only when citing a direct quote. If a quote has been taken from more than one page of text,

write “pp.” instead of “p.” in the citation: (Schultz, 2009, pp. 149-150).

For electronic sources, follow the in-text parenthetical citation style for print sources. However, for non-paginated

material, use the paragraph number instead of the page number with a direct quote: (Wilmoth, 2010, para. 9). If the

non-paginated document is especially lengthy, cite the paragraph number in the heading or chapter: (Wilmoth, 2010,

Discussion, para. 1).

6.11 Basic Citation Styles The different formats for both in-text and parenthetical citations are as follows:

First citation in

text

Subsequent

citations in text

Parenthetical format,

first citation in text

Parenthetical format,

subsequent citations

One author Walker (2007) Walter (2007) (Walker, 2007) (Walker, 2007)

Two authors Walker and

Allen (2004)

Walker and Allen

(2004)

(Walker & Allen,

2004)

(Walker & Allen,

2004)

Three to five

authors

Bradley,

Ramirez, Soo,

Bradley et al.

(2006)

(Bradley, Ramirez,

Soo, & Walsh, 2006)

(Bradley et al., 2006)

The results of this study proved that students with low writing self-efficacy were

hesitant to write, even if their discursive skills rated above average: “If self-efficacy

is lacking, people tend to behave ineffectually, even though they know what to do”

(Bandura, 1986, p. 425).

Bandura (1986) demonstrated, “If self-efficacy is lacking, people tend to behave

ineffectually, even though they know what to do” (p. 425).



Created Fall 2013

and Walsh

(2006)

Six or more

authors

Wasserstein et al.

(2005)

Wasserstein et al. (Wasserstein et al.,

2005)

(Wasserstein et al.,

2005)

Group as

author (with

abbreviation)

National Institute

of Mental Health

(NIMH, 2003)

NIMH (2003) (National Institute of

Mental Health

[NIMH], 2003)

(NIMH, 2003)

Group as

author (no

abbreviation)

University of

Pittsburgh (2005)

University of

Pittsburgh (2005)

(University of

Pittsburgh, 2005)

(University of

Pittsburgh, 2005)

6.17 Secondary Sources To cite a source within a source, use “as cited in.” Do not include a citation for the cited source in the reference list;

only include the source in which it was found:

According to McLeod (1987), the writing process is as much an emotional as a cognitive activity (as cited

in Pajares et al., 2007).

The writing process is as much an emotional as a cognitive activity (McLeod, 1987, as cited in Pajares et

al., 2007).

6.20 Personal Communications

Personal communications are letters, e-mail, personal interviews, telephone conversations, and other non-archived

material. Because personal communications cannot be retrieved, they are not cited in the reference list. In text, list

the initials, the surname of the communicator, and the date:

T. K. Lutes (personal communication, April 18, 2001)

(T. K. Lutes, personal communication, April 18, 2001).

6.03 Block quotes If a quotation exceeds 40 words, put it in an indented block of text and omit the quotation marks:

If the quotation references multiple paragraphs, indent the first line of each paragraph an additional half-inch.

with low writing self-efficacy. Current research supports this hypothesis:

the beliefs students hold about their writing capabilities powerfully influence

their writing performances, as well as the academic choices they make in high

school and college (Hackett, 1995). Less is known, however, about how these

self-beliefs take hold and are developed. (Pajares et al., 2007, p. 117)

entire quote indented a

half-inch from the text for block quotes,

the period goes

before, not after,

the parenthetical

citation



Created Fall 2013

How to Construct and Format a Reference List

Start the reference list on a new page. Type “References,” centered, at the top of the page. Any sources cited in text

must appear in the reference list; likewise, each entry in the reference list must have a matching citation in the text.

Example reference list

Double-space and alphabetize all references entries. Use a hanging indent. Space once after punctuation in all

references. Space once after periods of the initials in people’s names (e.g., Zhang, J. R.). Italics is preferred over the

use of underlining. Do not italicize punctuation that is not part of a title. If the source has no date, use (n.d.) both in

the reference list and in the parenthetical citation.

6.27 Source with Multiple Authors Include up to seven authors in a citation on the references list. However, with eight or more authors, include the

first six authors, then insert three ellipses, and add the last author’s name.

Gilbert, D. G., McClernon, J. F., Rabinovich, N. E., Sugai, C., Plath, L. C., Asgaard, G., . . .

Botros, N. (2004). Effects of quitting smoking on EEG activation and attention last for

more than 31 days and are more severe with stress, dependence, DRD2 A1 allele, and depressive traits.

Nicotine and Tobacco Research, 6, 249-267. doi:10. 1080/14622200410001676305

7.01 Periodicals

Journal article

Light, M. A. & Light, I. H. (2008). The geographic expansion of Mexican immigration in the

United States and its implications for local law enforcement. Law Enforcement Executive

Forum Journal, 8(1), 73-82.

Electronic journal article with DOI

Herbst-Damm, K. L., & Kulik, J. A. (2005). Volunteer support, marital status, and the survival times of terminally

ill patients. Health Psychology, 24, 225-229. doi:10.1037/0278-6133.24.2.225

Include the digital object identifier (DOI) is one is assigned. If no DOI is assigned to the content and the article was

retrieved online, include the home page URL for the journal, newsletter, or magazine in the reference. No retrieval

date is needed. Do not put a period at the end of a URL.


References Bandura, A., Barbaranelli, C., Gian Vittorio, C., & Pastorelli, C. (1996).

Multifaceted impact of self-efficacy beliefs on academic functioning.

Child Development, 67(3), 1206-1222. Retrieved from

www.jstor.org/stable/1131888?cookieSet=1

Bandura, A. (1997). Self-efficacy: The exercise of control. New York,

New York: Freeman.

Klassen, R. (2002). Writing in early adolescence: A review of the role

of self-efficacy beliefs. Educational Psychology Beliefs, 14(2),

173-203. doi 1040-726X/02/0600-0173/0

for the title of an article,

capitalize only the first word of

the title, the word following the

colon, and any proper nouns;

do not italicize or put in quotes

for the title of a periodical (a

journal, newspaper, or magazine),

capitalize all words but articles

and short prepositions; then

italicize both the title and the

volume number that follows

for the title of a book or report,

capitalize only the first word of

the title, the word following

the colon, and any proper

nouns; then italicize



Created Fall 2013

Electronic journal article with URL

Sillick, T. J., & Schutte, N. S. (2006). Emotional intelligence and self-esteem mediate between perceived early

parental love and adult happiness. E-Journal of Applied Psychology, 2(2), 38-48. Retrieved from

http://ojs.lib.swin.edu.au/index.php/ejap

Newspaper article

Schwartz, J. (1993, September 30). Obesity affects economic, social status. The Washington

Post, pp. A1, A4.

Precede page numbers for newspaper articles with p. or pp.

Electronic newspaper article

Brody, J. E. (2007, December 11). Mental reserves keep brain agile. The New York Times. Retrieved from

http://www.nytimes.com

7.02 Books Shotton, M. A. (1989). Computer addiction? A study of computer dependency. London, England:

Taylor & Francis.

The publishing location should contain at least two geographic elements, as in city, region, country, or city, state.

Ampersands are now acceptable in publisher names.

Article or chapter in an edited book

Haybron, D. M. (2008). Philosophy and the science of subjective well-being. In M. Eid & R. J. Larsen (Eds.), The

science of subjective well-being (pp. 17-43). New York, NY: Guilford Press.

Electronic version of print book

Shotton, M. A. (1989). Computer addiction? A study of computer dependency [DX Reader version]. Retrieved from

http://www.ebookstore.tandf.co.uk/html/index.asp

The name of the electronic version in brackets follows the name of the book.

To see a more detailed listing of references, see the APA manual. Additional information about APA can be found

at http://apastyle.apa.org/

http://apastyle.apa.org/

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